Notes that most future medical students major in biology and chemistry despite evidence that non-science majors perform equally well in medical school. Traces the history of the liberal arts tradition, discusses its importance for medicine, and urges medical faculties to take the lead in reshaping the premedical as well as the medical education of…

The paper considers the current health care crisis in rural and inner city areas and proposes changes in physician education including changes in premedical education and medical school admissions criteria. Changed criteria could encourage more broadly educated students to enter the medical profession thus maintaining high standards while meeting…

A study of 200 medical students' records at Albany Medical College (New York) found that quantity of science-based undergraduate premedical education, either in its entirety or in subdivisions (specific subjects), did not materially affect performance in preclinical years of medical school. (Author/MSE)

History and philosophy of integrated premedical-medical programs leading to a combined undergraduate-medical degree in 6-8 years are reviewed, and student performance data are cited. It is concluded that university-affiliated medical schools might consider establishing such programs to articulate curricula better and provide access for students…

A study of records of 199 Barry University (Florida) premedical students found that their Scholastic Aptitude Test scores and grade point averages were statistically reliable predictors of Medical College Admission Test scores, but student status as minority or majority and as transfer or nontransfer student were very not statistically reliable…

Reports the findings of the Working Group on Capturing the Promise of Medical Research, which addressed questions concerning the direction of biomedical research, academia-industry relations, and the integration of scientific developments in medical education and practice. A dominant theme emerged: the central importance of an environment of…

A method for classifying students according to the breadth of their premedical preparation is presented, and medical school performances and career plans of students thus classified are compared. Grouping is according to undergraduate major, nonscience-to-science course hour ratio, and extracurricular involvement. The method is found useful for…

A study assessed the extent to which the City University of New York medical school's innovative integrated baccalaureate/preclinical degree program has met its objectives of expanding access to medical careers among inner-city youth, especially minorities, and encouraging pursuit of primary care specialties among graduates. Results suggest…